General Motors has rehired a second former PR professional, on Monday naming Tony Cervone senior vice president of GM global communications, effective immediately. He will report to CEO Mary Barra and rejoins GM after serving as executive vice president of group communications for Volkswagen Group of America.
“Tony brings an ideal mix of outside perspective and experience that complements a deep background in GM and today’s global auto industry,” said Barra. “I’ve worked with Tony in the past and he has my trust and respect. I know he’ll be another catalyst for change on our leadership team.”
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Cervone, 51, will have overall responsibility for GM’s global communications, including global products and brands, corporate, social media, executive support, and internal communications.
“It’s a great time to rejoin GM,” Cervone said. “A re-energised leadership team, the best products in its history, a renewed commitment to individual customer experiences, and a compelling drive for cultural change all combine to make this a key moment in this great company’s history. I’m proud to be a part of both the leadership and communications teams.”
Cervone has held top communications positions in the automotive and aviation industries. Prior to Volkswagen, he was senior vice president for communications for United Airlines and was a key part of the team that oversaw the carrier’s merger with Continental Airlines.
He joined United from GM where he served as vice president of global communications strategy and operations. His 10-year career at GM also included leading international communications operations in Europe. Cervone originally joined GM from Chrysler Group where he was vice president for communications and held various communications positions during a 14-year career at the automaker.
Cervone succeeds Selim Bingol who left GM in April “to pursue other interests”, a GM statement said.
